Shanghai (ZXZC)- AIWAYS, one of China's Internet-based EV startup, released its first A-class pure electric SUV, the U5 ION at its strategy-releasing conference on Apr. 16. The new model is based on the MAS platform, which will support at least 15 new models, covering SUV, sedan, MPV and pickup. In addition, the U5 ION will roll off the production line at the end of this year and hit the market next year.

At the conference, Gu Feng, co-founder and CEO of AIWAYS stated that the startup is slated to release one new model every six to eight months. The SUV based on the MAS platform will be launched next year, while a sports car model based on GES platform will be showcased at Auto China 2018. 

MAS platform can be applicable to various driving modes. Base on newly designed body, chassis technology and advanced small integrated motor, the vehicle's driving modes can flexibly meet the agile layouts of front main drive, rear main drive and four-wheel drive. According to different electric motor and drive layout programs, the platform can help models sprint from 0-100km/h in 5s to 10s. 

MAS platform can also be compatible with various designs of battery packs. To meet customers' demand for medium and long ranges, MAS platform now has shaped three developing tiers of battery packs ranging from 60kW/h to 80kW/h. In the meantime, a new idea of extending range will further provide customers more diversified options of battery packs.